Hi! My name is Shelby Riley and I am a sophomore at the University of Mississippi. Like many, I have always dreamed of going to Paris. The amazing city is surrounded by so many different stereotypes and is portrayed so differently in movies and stories, that I had to see it for myself.

Visiting BETC in Paris

When we arrived, our first stop was the BETC advertising agency. I instantly noticed that most of the employees were young, relaxed and truly enjoyed their job. I have always heard that the French “work to live, not live to work” and that definitely stood out at BETC. There were no cubicles or suits, just an open room with glass walls and a spectacular view of Paris. It was clear that this environment fostered creativity, teamwork, and a pleasant atmosphere.

I left BETC with a new understanding of what it takes to succeed in the advertising business, but I also left with a new mindset. I believe one of the main reasons that BETC is so successful is because of their passion to create good advertisements. I believe their business knowledge is essential, but it seemed that they believed each employee makes a difference.

I noticed that everyone from the company accountants to the creative directors, viewed their jobs as if they wanted to be there, not just simply a way to make money. I now carry that mindset, and believe when I am passionate about what I am doing, I can do great things – both in the business world and beyond.